While many mothers spent Mother’s Day with their children, Mary Elizabeth Fong was one of the few selling produce at the Lautoka market yesterday with her aunt to support her children back at home.

“I’m not happy because I am not with my children at home but I have to work hard and struggle for my kids. As a single parent, it’s very hard but at least my family is there to support me and my kids keep me going, “she said

“My youngest is 1 year 4 months only my eldest is in school, he is 9 years old and in year 4 at Gandhi Bhawan Primary School.”

The 28-year-old single mother of four said having her children changed her perspective on life.

“Before when I had my first child, I used to go out but when I had my third, I started to realize that I had to start struggling for my kids since my husband left me two years back.

“I changed a lot, I started to think that going out with friends and drinking is nothing and it’s better to work hard and get your kids somewhere in life so that in the future they can look after you.”

She said that on the weekdays she helps her mother sell black plastic bags to the fishermen in the Lautoka Market and on other days she helps her aunt to sell vegetables outside the market.

“If my aunty needs me then I come outside during those days Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I always help my mom out because she’s the one who does the shopping and my brother is a fireman but I’m trying for one market stall and I’m getting there,” she said

She urged other single parents to take advantage of employment opportunities to provide for their children.

“To all the single parents, think of your children and move forward instead of thinking negatively that you won’t be able to support them,” she said.

“You can try and do something to get a little money. Whatever you get, whether it is a little money or a lot at least it’s money, don’t be choosy because we all must struggle for our kids.”

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